Engagement season is in full swing and I’m reminiscing on some of my beautiful engagement sessions from earlier this year! One of my favorites has been Melissa and Neal’s Winter Arbor Hills Engagement Session! Not only did this stunning bride- and groom- to-be look like total models, but they were also so down-to-earth and absolutely wonderful to work with! It certainly makes my job as an engagement photographer a breeze when couples share as much love and chemistry as Melissa and Neal do!

Melissa reached out to me late last year in search of an engagement photographer. Since their last names are Lemmon and Berry, she wanted to achieve something unique – have Lemon Berry martinis made at a local bar or restaurant! Of course, she also wanted to mix it up with some photos that were a bit more outdoorsy and romantic, so we needed to have the best of both worlds. A local favorite of mine came to mind – Whiskey Cake in Plano! So, we first met at Whiskey Cake for photos with their custom Lemon Berry martinis (they look delicious!) and then drove to the nearby Arbor Hills! The result was a fantastic mix of modern and rustic engagement photos that perfectly captured their personalities!

I loved getting to know more about this sweet couple who will be tying the knot this November. Melissa and Neal love sharing new experiences together, and one of their favorites was a trip to New York that carries lots of memories they’ll cherish forever. And as for the proposal, Neal popped the question at a winery in Dripping Springs! Melissa says that the scenery was breathtaking and the baby goats were precious, but the biggest surprise was seeing Neal down on one knee with a ring. My goodness!

This Arbor Hills engagement session was truly one of my favorites. There’s something magical about winter light and romance! View my favorites from Melissa and Neal’s engagement and learn more about them below!

How did you two meet?

“Neal and I met in college at Texas State University in San Marcos, Texas. One of my best friends introduced us at a football tailgate. We hung out a little in college, but it wasn’t until after college when Neal and I became a thing!”

Where are you getting married, and how did you choose your venue?

“We are getting married at The Milestone Mansion in Aubrey, Texas. I chose this venue because I could not get over the beautiful plantation like building. I knew I wanted a more formal wedding and this location definitely portrays that. From the big chandeliers, gorgeous staircase, and timeless rooms, I had to say yes! I also have a lot of family from Wichita Falls, Texas and Oklahoma, so having them drive to Aubrey, Texas instead of Dallas is more convenient.”

Do you have any tips or advice for other couples about to have engagement photos taken?

“Just to let loose, be yourself and have so much fun! These are pictures you will keep forever to show your kids and their kids when you get older.”

How was your overall session experience?

“Our session could not have been any more perfect. Emily, first impressions are everything and you gave a fabulous one. We felt like we’ve known you longer than just one day! You made us feel comfortable throughout the whole shoot and had such positive energy. Thank you so much!” (From Emily: Y’all, I’m dying. How sweet is she?!)